Paraplegia (Paraplegic): Complete paralysis of the lower half of the body including both legs, usually caused by damage to the spinal cord,
Quadriplegia (Quadriplegic): One affected with paralysis of both arms and legs

There are various issues that individuals with Spinal Cord injuries will encounter. The following is an illustration of those issues:

Accident – most individuals who suffer some form of spinal cord injury will have resulted from some type of accident, i.e., motor vehicle, diving, etc.

Trauma – most individuals will suffer some form of traumatic experience. They will encounter emotional, physical and spiritual challenges and will require guidance and assistance in dealing with their emotions.

Rehabilitation – means "to restore to a former capacity or state; to bring to a condition of health or useful and constructive activity". When a person suffers a spinal cord injury they will go through some form of rehabilitation. The severity and amount of damage to the spinal cord will determine the time and length he or she will spend in rehabilitation

Occupational Therapy – Individuals will be provided therapy that will assist  them in obtaining grooming, dressing, and other home health care skills required to live an independent life style. They will have the opportunity to learn how to drive again with hand controls. Using an assimilator and on the road application with hand controls they will gain independence skills. If you wish to drive again, you will have to re-take your driver's test. Each state requires a Special Code for persons using hand controls and a test that includes their ability to drive using these controls. For more information please contact your State Motor Vehicle Department.

Physical Therapy – is provided to individuals with spinal cord injury to allow them to gain muscle strength, endurance to move around, and other physical skills required to live a independent life style.

Support Group Therapy – Individuals will be referred by their doctor/therapist to participate in therapy where they will have the opportunity to discuss, share similar experiences or stories.

Recreational Therapy – Individuals will have the opportunity to participate in activities such as; basketball, crafts, pool, swimming, etc. Many of these activities can include outdoor involvement or expeditions. All of which improve independent living skills.

Guidance & Counseling - Individuals will have the opportunity to meet with aCounselor, Social Worker, or Psychiatrist to discuss personal issues they are feeling.

Follow-up Visits – Once the individual is discharged from a hospital/rehabilitation center they will be required to come in for check ups to determine progress.

Personal issues following a spinal cord injury